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Experimental pathogenicity of Aphanoascus spp
1Unitat de Biologia i Microbiologia, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Reus, Tarragona, Spain.
Abstract:
Immunodepressed mice were inoculated intraperitonealy with a suspension of conidia and micelia macerate of four species of Aphanoascus (A. keratinophilus, A. fulvescens, A. reticulisporus and A. verrucosus). All produced nodular lesions in the peritoneal cavity, especially in the liver, spleen, diaphragm and peritoneum. The recovery rate of the fungi on phytone-yeast extract agar after one month varied approximately from 20 to 80% depending on the organs. Sections of these revealed the presence of ascospores and hyphal fragments though only in the centre of the nodules. Fungal elements were not detected in organs which were apparently not affected, nor intravascularly.
Insights
Four Aphanoascus species caused peritoneal lesions in immunosuppressed mice, with fungal elements localized within nodules. Recovery rates varied, indicating organ-specific fungal persistence and limited systemic spread.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Immunology
- Veterinary Pathology
Background:
- The genus Aphanoascus comprises fungi with potential pathogenic capabilities.
- Understanding the host-pathogen interactions of Aphanoascus species is crucial for diagnosing and treating infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pathogenicity of four Aphanoascus species in an immunodepressed murine model.
- To characterize the macroscopic and microscopic lesions induced by these fungi.
- To assess the recovery rates and distribution of fungal elements within host tissues.
Main Methods:
- Immunodepressed mice were inoculated intraperitoneally with conidia and mycelial macerates of four Aphanoascus species.
- Macroscopic examination of peritoneal cavity and internal organs was performed.
- Fungal recovery was assessed on phytone-yeast extract agar after one month.
- Histopathological examination of affected tissues was conducted.
Main Results:
- All four Aphanoascus species induced nodular lesions in the peritoneal cavity, predominantly affecting the liver, spleen, diaphragm, and peritoneum.
- Fungal recovery rates ranged from approximately 20% to 80%, varying by organ.
- Histological analysis revealed the presence of ascospores and hyphal fragments within the central areas of the nodules.
- Fungal elements were not detected in unaffected organs or intravascularly.
Conclusions:
- Aphanoascus species can cause significant lesions in the peritoneal cavity of immunodepressed mice.
- The fungi appear to be localized within the induced nodules, with limited evidence of widespread dissemination.
- These findings contribute to understanding the pathogenesis of Aphanoascus infections in a mammalian model.